LUDWIGSBURG IS MOVING: LUCIE FOR A GREEN FUTURE!

LUDWIGSBURG IS MOVING: LUCIE FOR A GREEN FUTURE!

A pioneering project to improve mobility in the Ludwigsburg region and the surrounding area has proven to be urgently needed. The LUCIE initiative aims to reduce CO₂ emissions, save energy and promote fair, sustainable mobility. The project is becoming increasingly important, particularly in view of the planned 2043 Federal Garden Show in Ludwigsburg, Stuttgart and Esslingen. The aim is to increase the quality of life in the region through less traffic jams, safe routes to school, clean air and more green spaces. This is also seen as a key to strengthening employer attractiveness and supporting the recruitment of skilled workers, as good transport connections are increasingly important for commuters and employees.

The transport sector is currently responsible for around 22 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in Germany. In 2023, modes of transport emitted around 146 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalents, with the focus being on the drastic reduction required by 2030. The LUCIE initiative can serve as a model here. Studies show that regions with good public transport tend to have lower right-wing extremist voting results. Promoting encounters, integration and social cohesion benefits various social groups, especially women, young people and seniors.

Networking and synergies

The LUCIE initiative sees strengthening the light rail system as a central element. This will connect Ludwigsburg with the surrounding towns of Kornwestheim, Remseck, Möglingen, Schwieberdingen and Markgröningen and thus also improve accessibility to the city center and tourist destinations. A well-developed light rail system not only attracts restaurants and commerce, but also supports the region's cultural institutions. The integration of the bus routes into the existing network complements the offer and promotes the use of public transport.

In the broader discussion about sustainable mobility, the need for a transport transition is also pointed out. Motorized individual transport, which accounts for around 75 percent of passenger kilometers, must be reduced by expanding public transport and promoting cycling. Electric vehicles now make up 30 percent of new registrations, but their share of the total number of cars remains low at just 1.3 percent. In order to achieve the climate goals, a profound transformation of the mobility industry is urgently needed.

Climate goals and challenges

The Federal Climate Protection Act calls for a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of at least 65 percent by 2030 compared to 1990. To achieve this, transport must strive for a drastic reduction in its emissions, which is currently well above the set targets. By 2030, emissions from the transport sector must be reduced to 85 million tonnes of CO₂, while current projections suggest around 111 million tonnes.

The LUCIE initiative is thus described as a necessary decision for climate, justice, economy and quality of life. The funding should not only focus on increasing network capacities in local public transport, but also on improving the infrastructure and strengthening sustainable transport alternatives. Integrated planning of the transport infrastructure that takes all modes of transport into account is essential.

For the future, it should be noted that environmentally friendly transport solutions not only serve to reduce emissions, but can also significantly increase the quality of life of people in the region. A joint commitment from all stakeholders is required in order to fully exploit the diverse advantages of sustainable mobility.